In today's digital age, social media platforms like TikTok have become not just a source of entertainment but also an integral part of our daily lives. This phenomenon is especially prevalent among younger generations who spend considerable time immersed in these online worlds. One aspect of this immersion that has sparked significant debate is the impact of 'likes' and rewards on children’s self-esteem.
Likes and rewards are two primary forms of validation on TikTok - a platform where users can share short-form videos. When a user posts content that garners likes or earns them rewards, they experience what psychologists term as positive reinforcement, which boosts their self-confidence. However, the question arises – Is this boost in confidence healthy or does it lead to detrimental effects?
The impact is twofold. On one hand, receiving likes and rewards can heighten a child's sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. It may encourage creativity as children strive to create more engaging content to gain further recognition from peers. Additionally, for children with introverted personalities who struggle with face-to-face interactions, social media platforms such as TikTok offer an alternative avenue for social interaction and acceptance.
On the other hand, an over-reliance on external validation through likes and rewards could potentially cultivate unhealthy habits and skewed perceptions in children about their worthiness. A study by the University of Michigan found that students who used social media extensively displayed higher levels of narcissism compared to their counterparts who did not use such platforms frequently.
Moreover, when these kids do not receive the expected number of likes or rewards, it might induce feelings of inadequacy or failure. They may start comparing themselves with others based on these superficial metrics leading to issues related to body image, anxiety and even depression.
Furthermore, kids might become overly obsessed with crafting a perfect online persona that they believe will attract more likes or comments rather than being true to themselves. This can result in the loss of authenticity and an unhealthy obsession with perfectionism.
In conclusion, while TikTok offers a platform for creativity and social interaction, it is crucial to educate kids about the potential pitfalls of seeking validation through likes or rewards. Parents and educators must encourage children to engage in self-reflection, promote their individuality, and foster resilience to overcome perceived social media failures. They should also stress that self-worth should be based on personal achievements and inner qualities rather than external validation. With proper guidance, we can help our children navigate the digital world safely while maintaining their self-esteem intact.
